At Lightcurve Internet, we believe every strong community starts with small business. Here in Yelm, that belief is alive and well. Our local entrepreneurs bring creativity, craftsmanship, and care to everything they do, from family-run shops to innovative service providers.
If you’re a small business owner yourself, this list isn’t just about where to shop; it’s a look at the kinds of ventures and people that make Yelm such an inspiring place to do business.
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Tim’s Pharmacy
Rating: 4.8 | Type: Independent Pharmacy & Gift Shop
Tim’s Pharmacy & Gift Shop is a beloved Yelm staple, known for its personalized care, friendly staff, and truly local feel. Beyond prescriptions and medical services, the shop features a cozy gift section and an in-store coffee spot, making it a community hub.
Business takeaway: Warm, attentive service you won’t find in big-box pharmacies, plus the charm of a gift boutique and coffee nook all in one place.
Tip: If you have specialty prescriptions, complex medication needs, or want delivery options, this is a great local choice. While you’re there, grab a drink from the café or pick up a gift! -
Steele Barrel BBQ Company
Rating: 4.8 | Type: Barbecue Restaurant
Steele Barrel BBQ Company has mastered the art of word-of-mouth marketing — and great barbecue. This homegrown restaurant built its reputation on flavor, consistency, and authentic hospitality.
Business takeaway: Quality is your best marketing strategy.
Tip: Build a strong local following first — authenticity travels farther than paid ads. -
Masonry Café & Catering
Rating: 4.7 | Type: Café & Catering Service
Masonry Café & Catering blends community spirit with smart business versatility. Serving as both a café and catering service, it shows how small businesses can expand by listening to what locals need.
Business takeaway: Diversify to grow… but keep your roots local.
Tip: Collaboration with other local vendors can strengthen your catering or hospitality offering. -
Elie Jewelry Design
Rating: 4.9 | Type: Jewelry Store
Elie Jewelry Design proves that a boutique business can compete with national chains through craftsmanship and personal service. Custom design and trust have made this shop a standout.
Business takeaway: In a digital world, personal touch is your differentiator.
Tip: Highlight your process or story on social media: customers love to see how things are made. -
Tahoma Vista Fiber Mill & La Vida Alpaca
Rating: 4.9 | Type: Fiber Mill & Tourist Attraction
Few small businesses combine creativity and sustainability as gracefully as Tahoma Vista Fiber Mill. They’ve built a niche around local farming, fiber production, and artisan experiences.
Business takeaway: Niche markets can be powerful when paired with storytelling.
Tip: Invite your audience in–literally! Farm tours, demos, or behind-the-scenes content create loyal fans. -
InGenius! Local Artisan Gallery & Boutique
Rating: 5.0 | Type: Art Gallery / Boutique
InGenius! represents the heart of local collaboration — a collective of artists and makers showcasing Yelm’s creative spirit. It’s proof that small businesses thrive when they lift each other up.
Business takeaway: Partnership builds visibility.
Tip: Cross-promote with nearby businesses to expand your audience while supporting others. -
Gee Gee’s Quilting Inc
Rating: 4.7 | Type: Quilt & Fabric Shop
A long-standing favorite, Gee Gee’s Quilting has transformed from a small fabric store into a creative hub. It’s more than retail; it’s a place where learning, creativity, and connection come together.
Business takeaway: Offer experiences, not just products.
Tip: Classes, events, or workshops help keep your customers engaged and returning. -
Empowered Electric
Rating: 5.0 | Type: Electrical Service Provider
With perfect reviews and a reputation for reliability, Empowered Electric shows how local service businesses can win customer loyalty through professionalism and communication.
Business takeaway: Reputation is your best business plan.
Tip: Ask satisfied clients for public reviews. They’re the new form of local referral marketing. -
Farwell’s Fine Jewelry
Rating: 4.9 | Type: Jewelry Store
Farwell’s Fine Jewelry complements Yelm’s other jewelers by offering its own blend of craftsmanship and service. It’s a great example of how small businesses can coexist, not compete, when they focus on what makes them unique.
Business takeaway: Community over competition keeps local economies strong.
Tip: Partner with peers in your industry for cross-promotions or shared events. -
Queenie Bee Raw Honey Farm
Rating: 5.0 | Type: Honey Farm
A smaller, specialty business with a big heart, Queenie Bee Raw Honey Farm brings farm-to-table sweetness directly to local customers. Their success shows that even niche producers can make a big impact with quality and authenticity.
Business takeaway: Small-scale operations can thrive with passion and storytelling.
Tip: Use your digital presence to educate: sharing your process builds customer trust and curiosity.
Why Supporting Local Businesses Builds Stronger Communities
Every shop, café, and service provider on this list contributes to Yelm’s identity. Together, they show what’s possible when small businesses support one another.
At Lightcurve Internet, we’re proud to serve and celebrate local businesses that keep our region growing. Reliable connectivity is the foundation for digital marketing, online orders, customer engagement, and every other piece of modern business success.
Let’s keep Yelm connected and growing. Learn how Lightcurve Internet supports small business owners at getlightcurve.com.
